SIBU: Excitement is mounting across Sarawak as anticipation grows for the state’s own airline, AirBorneo, following its official announcement on Feb 12.
The buzz has been particularly strong on social media, where AI-generated designs of the airline’s livery have been widely shared.
Many of these designs feature Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, incorporating traditional motifs such as pua kumbu and batik, while others emphasise the colours of Sarawak’s flag—yellow, black, and red—symbolising the state’s unity and identity.
The overwhelming public enthusiasm even caught the attention of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who, during his speech at the launch of Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) at the Serian Convention Centre on Feb 18, suggested holding a design competition for AirBorneo’s official livery.
With the anticipation reaching new heights, Sarawak Edition’s Facebook post asking for tagline suggestions for AirBorneo sparked a massive response, garnering over 12,300 comments and 9,900 likes.
Among the creative tagline suggestions from netizens were “Ketek ajak alu sampei” (Only press the button and we arrive), “Baru arimarek nait belon, aritok nait agik” (Just flew yesterday, flying again today), “Bok ateang, alu puleang” (Just arrive, now going home), “Fly Kenyalang, Fly High,” “Aram pulai ke menua” (Let’s return home), “Wings of Borneo, Heart of Sarawak,” “Fly with Style, Everyone Can Soar!” and “Borneo’s Sky, Sarawak’s Pride.”
AirBorneo is part of Sarawak’s broader ambition to boost its aviation sector and strengthen air connectivity within Borneo and beyond.
The state government envisions the airline playing a key role in supporting tourism, trade, and regional economic growth, while also making air travel more accessible to Sarawakians.
With so much excitement and creativity surrounding AirBorneo, all eyes are now on what’s next for Sarawak’s very own airline.
